Finish those assignments, do that homework, find a custom writings service… Overwhelming, isn’t it?
It’s important to unwind every once in a while, especially when you’re amid college hassles. And if you don’t know what to pick for your next solo (or not) watch party, Stardust and other fairy tales are a top recommendation.
If you think “But I outgrew them”, don’t be too quick to close the tab. Just because you think you’re supposed to “outgrow” these stories, there’s no objective reason you should. They take you on an exciting journey and, if you’re an adult, have the power to restore your faith in humanity.
Before diving right into what makes them so captivating, let’s make sure everyone’s on the same page regarding what a fairytale is. From here on, this word will be used not only for the classics like Snow White or The Little Mermaid. Fantasy films, like Stardust, also fall into the “fairytale” category as they share plenty of characteristics with “traditional” tales.
Now, let’s take a look at 4 main reasons why college students shouldn’t stop watching fairy tales (despite everyone telling them adults aren’t supposed to enjoy them).
1. Reconnect with Your Childhood
Remember that time when your imagination roamed free? When you could enter a magical world using just the power of your creativity? When you didn’t need much to start smiling and laughing?
When you’re on your own for the first time ever, when you’re just exploring the concept of being an adult, going back to those times may not even cross your mind. There are too many responsibilities and obligations. There might not be enough time to enjoy the littlest things, like the way you used to smile at a butterfly flying by when you were a kid.
As a young adult, you will inevitably realize that you miss your childhood – and that’s alright. You might miss the carefree life or the ease with which you smiled. Fairy tales can be your gateway to reconnecting with your childhood – and bringing more joy into your current very-much-adult life.
2. Go on an Adventure
Many fairy tales revolve around a quest in a fantasy realm. Defeat an evil witch, save the kingdom, or find and rescue a princess, you know the usual suspects when it comes to quests.
All of those look banal at a first glance. But when it’s well told, a great fantasy story will make you feel you’re on these journeys together with the characters. You’ll feel for their triumphs and failures, wishes and fears. And in the end, you’ll be rewarded with a happy end.
What’s more, fairytales are there to take you on a journey into a world full of magic and impossible creatures. Discovering what it has to offer is entertaining, to say the least.
3. Get Back in Touch with Your Optimism
Speaking of happy ends. In a way, fairytales are predictable: you know that the heroes will overcome all the challenges and defeat evil. But, once again, if the story is well told, that doesn’t make the film any less interesting to watch.
Instead, it’s great to experience a happy end every once in a while. Adult life itself is already tough enough, and there might be plenty of reasons to feel stressed or pessimistic about your future.
Fantasy films can help you retrieve your optimistic outlook on the world, even if for a short while. They’re a great reminder that challenges can be overcome. And once monsters are slain and evil is defeated, there’ll be a happy end.
4. Revisit Simpler Times
A lot of films and TV series these days are gritty and dark. Even if you’re the kind of viewer that enjoys such entertainment, it’s still great to unwind once in a while.
Fairytales don’t usually have any moral grey area or tough philosophical questions. There’s good and evil, and that’s pretty much all. Yes, it’s simple, and some might even argue it’s too simplistic. But everyone needs to reintroduce this simplicity into their lives when things become too complicated, don’t they?
Student life is overwhelming, in part, because this is the time you discover your own values and ask these tough questions about the world itself.
It’s always a good idea to step back from this when it becomes too much. (That’s not to say you should abandon those reflections altogether, of course. Just remember to take some time off and rest from them.)
Fantasy films are there to remind you about the power of friendship, found family, and optimism.
In Conclusion: 7 Fairytales to Add to Your Watch List
Not all fairytales are created equal – that’s mostly because there are great and mediocre (and outright bad) films. Some manage to take you on a journey and make you immersed in the battles and chases and the rest of the action. Others don’t evoke any emotion or involvement.
So, apart from Stardust, here are 7 more recommendations for your next journey into a fantasy world:
- The Lord of the Rings trilogy;
- Harry Potter series (especially the first two films);
- The Jungle Book (2016);
- Pete’s Dragon (2016);
- Enchanted (2007);
- The Spiderwick Chronicles (2008);
- The Chronicles of Narnia series.